"Leader Unleashed – Become one of the most highly valued members of your executive team in 90 days" by Sarah Farmer is a compelling guide for anyone seeking to overcome imposter syndrome and ascend to new heights in their professional journey. Farmer delves deep into the intricacies of imposter syndrome, dissecting its five levels and unraveling the myths surrounding it. Through insightful discussions on neuroplasticity and the complexities of our own mental wiring, Farmer provides readers with the tools to confront and conquer their inner doubts.

The highlight of the book is Farmer's innovative EAGLE system, a five-step process comprising Evaluate, Analyze, Generate, Learn, and Evolve. This systematic approach empowers readers to assess their current standing, strategize effectively, and adapt to the challenges of leadership with confidence. By emphasizing the importance of mindset and mental resilience, "Leader Unleashed" inspires readers to unlock their full potential and embrace the limitless possibilities that await them in the corporate world. Farmer's blend of practical advice and motivational insights makes this book a must-read for aspiring leaders striving to make a lasting impact in their organizations.

"Simply Put – why clear messages win – and how to design them" by Ben Guttmann is a refreshing guide that navigates the complexities of communication with elegance and clarity. Guttmann masterfully dissects the art of crafting compelling messages, making a compelling case for simplicity as the ultimate tool for effective communication. Through insightful analysis and practical examples, he illuminates the questions businesses must address when crafting new proposals, emphasizing the importance of understanding the audience's perspective and needs. Guttmann's emphasis on empathy and his adept use of language underscore his message: clear communication is not just desirable but essential for success in any endeavor.

Guttmann's book serves as a beacon for anyone seeking to enhance their communication skills, particularly in the realm of business proposals. By advocating for simplicity and providing actionable strategies, he empowers readers to sharpen their messaging and connect more effectively with their audience. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or a newcomer to the world of business, "Simply Put" offers invaluable insights that will undoubtedly elevate your communication game and help you stand out in a crowded marketplace.

"Playing God with artificial intelligence" by Dr. Dean Anthony Gratton and Dr. Sarah-Jayne Gratton presents a comprehensive exploration of artificial intelligence (AI) that transcends mere technical jargon to offer profound insights into its societal, economic, and ethical implications. Through meticulous research and a keen understanding of technological evolution, the Grattons contextualize AI within the broader landscape of the 5th industrial revolution, shedding light on the transformative potential and challenges it presents for businesses and industries worldwide.

This book is a tour-de-force that not only elucidates the practical applications of AI but also delves into existential questions regarding its future, including the tantalizing prospect of AI achieving sentience. With a blend of scholarly rigor and accessible prose, the Grattons navigate complex concepts with clarity, inviting both leaders and enthusiasts alike to ponder the profound implications of playing God with artificial intelligence. "Playing God with artificial intelligence" emerges as an indispensable resource for anyone seeking to navigate the brave new world shaped by the inexorable march of AI.

Jake Dunlap's "The Innovative Seller," published by Wiley, is a groundbreaking guide that reshapes the landscape of modern sales with its forward-thinking approach and actionable strategies. Dunlap, a seasoned sales leader, introduces readers to the 4 Cs of innovative selling: Commitment to technology and AI proficiency, Customized sales journey, Current go-to-market strategy, and Consistent performance optimization. Each "C" is meticulously dissected and paired with real-world examples, making the book not only a theoretical framework but also a practical manual for sales professionals aiming to excel in an increasingly AI-driven market. The book’s strength lies in its balanced perspective, blending cutting-edge technology insights with timeless sales principles, ensuring that both seasoned and novice sellers can enhance their methodologies and outcomes.

In "The Innovative Seller," Dunlap explores how sales organizations can stay ahead in a rapidly evolving environment. He emphasizes the importance of embracing AI and other technological advancements to maintain a competitive edge, advocating for continuous learning and adaptation. Dunlap's insights on creating a buyer-centric sales journey highlight the necessity of personalization and empathy in today’s sales processes. Additionally, he discusses how to integrate AI into sales strategies without losing the essential human touch, ensuring that technology augments rather than replaces human interaction. This comprehensive guide is a must-read for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of modern sales, offering clear and practical advice on how to innovate effectively and maintain consistent performance in a dynamic market.

In "Motivation is PEAR Shaped: Discover the Four Essential Pillars That Drive Stable and Enduring Motivation and Willpower You to Your Goals," Simon Hartley delivers a compelling and insightful guide on understanding and harnessing motivation. As his 12th book, Hartley builds on a robust foundation of research to explore the four critical constructs of motivation: Purpose, Enjoyment, Achievement and Ambition, and Reward and Recognition. With a keen eye for both theory and practical application, Hartley deftly illustrates how these pillars interconnect to foster stable and long-lasting motivation. The book is enriched with real-life examples and case studies that demonstrate the relevance of these principles across various fields, from elite sports to corporate leadership.

Hartley's writing is both engaging and informative, making complex psychological concepts accessible to a broad audience. Whether you are an elite athlete striving for peak performance or a leader aiming to inspire your team, "Motivation is PEAR Shaped" offers valuable insights and practical strategies to boost motivation. Hartley's emphasis on the holistic nature of motivation—incorporating purpose, enjoyment, achievement, and recognition—ensures that readers are equipped with a comprehensive toolkit to achieve their goals. This book is a must-read for anyone looking to understand the intricacies of motivation and leverage it to drive personal and professional success.

Brian Will’s book, "I Give the Dumb Kids Hope - 57 Life Lessons to Take You from a Life of Despair to Multi-Millionaire," is a deeply inspiring read that offers practical wisdom and motivational insights for those striving to overcome life's challenges and achieve financial success. Drawing from his own journey as a dropout who transformed into a multi-millionaire, Will provides readers with a candid look into the mindset and strategies that propelled him to success. The book is structured around 57 poignant lessons, each one a stepping stone on the path from adversity to prosperity. His down-to-earth style and relatable anecdotes make the principles accessible and actionable for readers from all walks of life.

Will's extensive experience as a serial entrepreneur and business leader shines through in every chapter. Known for his previous bestsellers, including "The Dropout: Multi-Millionaire" and "NO... The Psychology of Sales and Negotiations," he distills over 35 years of business acumen into straightforward advice. From owning a chain of restaurants to running an insurance and technology company, Will’s ventures highlight his diverse expertise and his knack for turning around struggling enterprises. This book is more than just a collection of tips; it's a testament to the power of resilience and taking responsibility for one's future. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or someone seeking personal growth, "I Give the Dumb Kids Hope" serves as both a guide and a beacon of hope, proving that your past does not define your future.

David Priemer, the founder and chief sales scientist at Cerebral Selling, has delivered another insightful masterpiece with his latest book, "The Sales Leader They Need – Five Critical Skills to Unlock Your Team’s Potential." Known for his expertise as a trainer, author, sales leadership coach, and keynote speaker, Priemer once again demonstrates his profound understanding of sales leadership. Building on the success of his previous book, "Sell the Way You Buy," Priemer dives deep into the essence of effective leadership, emphasizing the critical role leaders play in both caring for their team and fostering their growth. He skillfully itemizes five essential skills that every sales leader must master to truly unlock their team’s potential, making this book an indispensable guide for anyone in a leadership position.

Reflecting on the best leaders we've encountered, Priemer's insights resonate profoundly as he highlights two fundamental aspects: genuine care for team members and a commitment to their growth. Through practical advice and real-world examples, "The Sales Leader They Need" not only provides a roadmap for becoming an exemplary leader but also inspires readers to cultivate an environment where their team can thrive. Priemer's engaging writing style and actionable strategies make this book a must-read for current and aspiring sales leaders seeking to make a lasting impact on their teams. Whether you're new to leadership or a seasoned veteran, Priemer’s latest work is sure to elevate your approach and drive your team to new heights.

"Unlocking Yes - Sales Negotiation Lessons and Strategy" by Patrick Tinney is a masterful guide for sales professionals seeking to refine their negotiation skills and strategies. Tinney, an accomplished sales and negotiation expert, distills his extensive experience into ten detailed strategies that salespeople can encounter and effectively navigate. The book's practical approach makes it a valuable resource for both novice and seasoned sales professionals. Tinney’s engaging writing style and clear explanations ensure that complex negotiation tactics are accessible and actionable.

Each chapter delves into a specific strategy, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of how to identify and counter these tactics. Tinney's insights are not just theoretical; they are grounded in real-world applications, making his advice highly relevant and immediately applicable. By the end of the book, readers will have a robust toolkit to handle various negotiation scenarios, enabling them to secure better deals and build stronger relationships with clients. "Unlocking Yes" is an indispensable read for anyone serious about mastering the art of sales negotiation.

Eric Stone's "Jumpstart Your Workplace Culture – A Road Map for Igniting High Performance" is a compelling guide that offers practical insights into transforming workplace dynamics to foster high performance and engagement. Drawing on his extensive experience as a Regional Vice President at Enterprise Mobility and now as the founder and CEO of Clear Path Ventures, Stone masterfully combines theoretical frameworks with actionable strategies. His approach to addressing the five critical factors of employee engagement is both insightful and easy to implement, making this book a valuable resource for leaders looking to revitalize their organizational culture.

What sets this book apart is Stone's ability to weave personal anecdotes with evidence-based practices, providing readers with a relatable and robust roadmap to success. His discussions on measuring organizational culture are particularly enlightening, offering clear methodologies that can be adapted to various business contexts. Whether you're a seasoned executive or a new manager, "Jumpstart Your Workplace Culture" is a must-read for anyone committed to creating an environment where employees can learn, thrive, and excel. Stone’s passion for fostering positive workplace culture shines through every page, making this book both an inspirational and practical guide for modern business leaders.

Rob Durant's "The Social Enablement Blueprint: Stop Pitching and Start Selling" is a refreshing and insightful take on modern sales strategies. Unlike traditional sales guides that focus heavily on aggressive pitching and relentless pursuit of prospects, Durant advocates for a more empathetic and socially adept approach. The book meticulously details how leveraging social networks and building genuine relationships can drive sales more effectively than cold calls and canned pitches. Durant’s advice is both actionable and accessible, making it a valuable resource for sales professionals at any level. His use of real-world examples and practical tips for integrating social selling techniques into everyday practice makes the content relatable and immediately applicable.

What sets this book apart is its focus on authenticity and the long-term benefits of fostering trust with clients. Durant emphasizes the importance of listening and understanding customer needs over simply pushing products, which aligns well with today’s buyer-centric marketplace. The chapters are well-organized and filled with interactive exercises, ensuring readers can apply the concepts as they progress. Whether you’re a seasoned salesperson looking to modernize your tactics or a newcomer eager to learn the ropes, "The Social Enablement Blueprint" offers a comprehensive and refreshing perspective that is sure to enhance your selling skills and foster more meaningful client relationships.

I wrote the first edition of "social selling - techniques to influence buyers and changemakers - 1st edition" (the one with the white cover) back in 2015 and it was published in 2016. It was the first book on social selling to be published. With so many changes that have taken place in social media over time, when Kogan Page, my publisher, approached me and asked for a second edition (the one with the yellow cover), I agreed.

This second edition, has been totally updated from 187 pages to 306. I explain how the world of business has changed with digital and how that impacts the modern buyer and it's a business imperative that we change our sales and marketing.

Many people often think that social selling is some sort of future state. It's not, it's the here and now. DLA Ignite, my company, for example, has clients doing $multi-million deals using social media. If your not doing $multi-million deals on social, your competition are and you are losing market share and revenue.

With this book, I contacted people I knew that were using social media to drive revenue and got them to tell their story. Chris Fleming the CEO of Cyberhawk, shares how he transformed his business to social and digital 3 years ago. Putting that another way, if you haven't transformed to a social selling methodology by now, you are 3 years behind the market.

In my second book, "Smarketing - How to achieve competitive advantage through blended sales and marketing" published through Kogan Page, we looked at the age old problem of marketing and sales working together.  At the time there was a lot of conversations on social media about how on earth do we get sales and marketing to be one team?

The book, takes a case study, which we cannot mention, it works through the strategy, how to implement a program to implement sales and marketing, the political risks and measures and governance. The book finishes with a look into the future of sales and marketing.

I would admit that if we wrote the book today, we would probably call it Rev-ops (revenue operations).

Please note that some reviews (but not all) I had Chat GPT to help me.